Maintenance & DosingGuidelines
Complete guide to titration schedules and long-term maintenance for
UK-approved weight loss medications
Take your medication on the same day each week for best results.
Monitor body measurements, weight, side effects, and how you feel.
Combine medication with healthy diet and regular exercise.
Contact your prescriber if you experience symptoms or side effects. Call 999 if urgent.
Titration Schedules
Gradual dose increases are recommended to minimize side effects. While guidance used to state an increase with each pen, most pharmacies now encourage you to ‘exhaust the dose’ (i.e., stay on the lowest dose possible until it’s no longer effective) before titrating upwards.
As an example, I have been prescribed Mounjaro since October 2025, and as of January 2026 have not taken the top dose.
Semaglutide
Initial dose, assess tolerance
Optional increase
0.5mg
Optional increase
1mg
Optional increase
Optional increase
Optional increase. At present this is delivered as 3 x 2.4mg pens. Formal 7.2mg Wegovy pens are expected later in 2026.
7.2mg
As far as we are aware, there are no clinical trials currently considering higher doses than is available.
- Maintenance Best Practices
- Once-weekly injection, same day each week
- Can be taken with or without food
- Rotate injection sites
- Store in refrigerator until first use
Semaglutide
Starting dose
Optional increase
Optional increase
Optional increase
Optional increase
12.5mg
Optional increase
15mg
Clinical trials are underway into higher doses, up to 25mg. However, it is likely to be some time until these doses are approved.
- Best Practices
- Once-weekly injection schedule
- You must stay on each dose for at least 4 weeks
- Keep well hydrated, and ensure you are eating enough
- Take at any time of day - but I prefer right before bed!
Common Questions
Everything you need to know about maintenance
How long can I stay on maintenance?
For as long as it’s clinically appropriate. Most people taper to find their maintenance dose once they reach, or are approaching, their goal weight. This process is a case of trial and error, so can take 6-12 months or longer, as directed by your healthcare provider. Weight loss medications work best when used long-term alongside lifestyle changes. At present, there is no maximum timeline that you can stay on either medication for.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose and it’s been less than 4 days, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s been more than 4 days, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double dose. Full information is available on the Eli Lilly website.
Can I increase my dose faster?
No, it’s important to follow the prescribed titration schedule. Increasing too quickly can lead to more severe side effects. Your healthcare provider will guide dose adjustments to ensure your safety.
What happens when I stop treatment?
Some weight regain is common after stopping. Work with your healthcare provider on a plan to maintain your weight loss through diet, exercise, and potentially continuing treatment longer-term.
Medical Disclaimer